Sony announced it will stop manufacturing physical discs for all new PlayStation games starting January 2028. New titles will be available only in digital formats through the PlayStation Store and retailers. The move has sparked widespread online criticism from fans.
Sony stated in a PlayStation Blog post that the change adapts to consumer preferences, as digital sales now far outpace physical ones. Games released before 2028 will retain physical versions, and retailers will continue selling digital codes in boxes.
Analysts including Mat Piscatella and Piers Harding-Rolls said the decision means the PlayStation 6 and Xbox Project Helix will launch as digital-only consoles in 2028. They noted it accelerates the shift away from physical media, with potential effects on backward compatibility and pricing control.
Online reactions have been strongly negative across Sony's social media accounts, with thousands of angry comments on posts about unrelated topics. Users expressed concerns over ownership, higher prices, and the loss of used game sales.
Sony separately announced the closure of PS3 and Vita digital stores in 2027, citing technical updates. This follows Rockstar's plan to release Grand Theft Auto 6 without a physical disc.
